Rocky Mt 2007: Doshi Audio Preamp Makes Sweet Sounds
October 18th, 2007 — By editor
Neil Gader
The Doshi Audio Alaap is a full-function tube preamp that due to its limited production falls into the boutique category. Nonetheless it didn’t stop it from making some sweet sounds with the ATC SCM100 active pro-monitors it was driving.
It includes a multiple input phono stage for high and low gain mm and mc cartridges. It uses as few gain blocks as possible, no feedback, separate gain stages and a custom transformer volume control with 32 positions, an exceptionally versatile control for this type.
Premium parts abound throughout–names like Riken, Audio Note and Kiwame join high quality capacitors from Black Gate and Audicap. The Doshi’s phono stage was ultra quiet and easily up to the challenge from the low output Koetsu.
Low bass might seemed slightly reserved due to the room setup–a common problem I encountered throughout at the venue–but it is also possible the Doshi has a lighter balance in this regard.
Love to have a chance to investigate further. For help picking your next Home Theater component, read our Buyer’s Guides.
